Every artist needs a good surface for drawing and painting. Whatever kind of creative work you do, you’ll know that having a great space to work can make all the difference.
A portable easel stand is an excellent solution, allowing you to set it up wherever you like. For your office or studio, a painting desk is essential.
It gives you a perfectly angled, ergonomic space to work on. Having the right set up will improve your workflow and help you release your creativity!
There are a lot of painting desks, and painting easel stands out there on the market. You want to invest in a reliable product that will last a long time. However, narrowing down the options can be confusing and time-consuming.
Here’s my guide to the best easels and painting desks around right now! Read on to find out what to look for when buying. Plus, I’ve recommended some of the top products to make your decision easier.
What to Look For When Buying an Easel Stand and Painting Desk
Here’s what you need to look out for when choosing your art easel or painting desk, and what to consider when buying an easel stand
You’ll need to consider a few features when selecting the easel stand. Firstly, you can choose the product type, from tripods to tabletop easel stands. You’ll also need to decide between an A-frame easel and an H-frame easel.
For frequent travel, a lightweight, compact easel is essential. But the weight might not be considered if it stays in your studio. If you’re short on room, think about how much space the stand will take up when assembled and folded up. canvas/paper holder
The size and height of your easel are other vital factors. You need an easel that can hold the right size of the canvas. Also, look for fasteners that keep your painting firmly in place while you work. Heavier woods like beechwood are more durable than cheap, light woods.
What to Consider When Buying a Painting Desk
When choosing a painting desk, you’ll need to consider how much space you have for it. Do you need a table that can be folded up when not in use? Also, consider whether having storage compartments is essential for you.
Painting desks come in various materials, from wood to metal or glass. Metal and glass can be easier to clean than wood, but wood has a classic look. Do you want a modern or traditional aesthetic?
Check out the quality of the materials and construction. Quality materials will stand the test of time. Also, how easy is it to set up?
Another factor to think about includes the height of the desk. Will it fit you comfortably while you work? Also, how adjustable is the angle of the desktop? Some desks will have a stool included. With others, you may need to buy it separately.
Check whether the desk can hold the canvas as well as the paper. Also, look to see whether there are fasteners to keep it in place while you paint.
Price & Quality
Your budget will always be an important consideration. You have to go for something affordable for you. At the same time, you don’t want to skimp on quality or good materials. A well-made desk will last much longer than the cheapest option.
But the most expensive desk or easel doesn’t always offer the best value for money either. Assess each product and choose carefully!
However, there’s a wide range of easels and painting desks on the market. You’re sure to find something that suits your budget and requirements.
The Best Easel Stands and Painting Desks
Here are my recommendations.
Arteza Wooden Easel Stand
(Image credit: Arteza)
The Arteza Wooden Easel Stand is adjustable, sturdy, and perfectly portable. It packs up small, making it ideal for taking anywhere. You’ll have no trouble transporting this easel, which folds into a tiny package. At the same time, it’s constructed from robust beech wood.
This easel will last you for years. The adjustable height makes it suitable for any artist. You can use it for painting, drawing, or even displaying your canvas.
Pros:
- It has a handy shelf to keep your paints and brushes on while you work
- Portable and lightweight yet sturdy
Cons:
- No storage compartments included
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AmazonUS Art Supply Coronado French-Style Easel
(Image credit: Us Art Supply)
This tripod-style easel is beautifully made, sturdy, and reliable. Careful attention to detail has gone into every feature. This easel is perfect for the avid artist who paints regularly.
A useful storage drawer keeps all your essential items close to hand. You can adjust the easel’s angle to get it right for you. The extendable legs add extra versatility and customization.
The rubber feet make it suitable for use on a table or the floor. This French-style easel is durable and made from high-quality beechwood. It has solid metal fasteners and clasps.
Pros:
- Superior quality for a long-lasting easel
- Includes a shoulder strap for easy portability
Cons:
- Heavier than some other easels on the market
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AmazonUS Art Supply H-Frame Studio Easel
(Image credit: Us Art Supply)
This tabletop easel stand by US Art Supply is very versatile. It’s suitable for use with acrylics, watercolors, or even pastels. You can set the angle forwards or backward according to your needs. It’s hardwearing and elegant, made from seasoned beechwood with natural oil finishing.
Plus, you get a lifetime guarantee to ease your worries and ensure you’re happy with your purchase.
Pros:
- Very adjustable, so you can use it how you like best
- High-quality, hardwearing, and affordable easel
Cons:
- Not very compact – 33 inches at its smallest size
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AmazonUS Art Supply Painting Kit with Coronado Sonoma Easel
(Image credit: Us Art Supply)
If you’re looking for an easel and all the art supplies you could ever need, go for this fantastic bundle. Not only do you get an excellent easel for painting at home, in the studio, or out in the field. You’ll also receive a full kit of painting supplies, too.
It includes watercolor paints, canvases, watercolor paper, acrylic paints, and more. As for the easel, it’s classy, beautiful, and easy to use. You don’t even have to put the easel together, as it comes ready-made for you.
Pros:
- This kit contains everything you need to get started painting
- The easel has a handy storage compartment
Cons:
- Not as durable as some other models
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AmazonMont Marte Tripod Easel H.D. Beach
(Image credit: Mont Marte)
This A-frame easel stand is an excellent choice for an artist, beginner, or pro. If you like to travel a lot, this easel is just what you need. It folds down into a small, compact size and is very lightweight. At the same time, it’s robust and well-made from sturdy beechwood. The metal canvas holders are adjustable and suitable for canvases of up to 112cm.
Pros:
- Includes a helpful carry handle for easy portability
- Doesn’t take up much space
Cons:
- No storage compartments
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AmazonSD Studio Designs Metal Drawing Table
(Image credit: SD STUDIO DESIGNS)
This metal drawing table by SD Studio Designs would be an excellent addition to any art studio. Measuring 35.5” x 24”, you get ample space on which to work. The tabletop is adjustable so that you can get the perfect angle. A height-adjustable stool is included, so you don’t need to buy anything else.
Plus, it has three plastic drawers to store all your essentials neatly. The heavy-gauge steel construction will last for years. So, this table offers superb value for money. With wheels on the base, you can move this table with ease.
Pros:
- Strong and hardwearing
- Handy removable trays to keep pens, pencils, paint, and brushes nearby
Cons:
- Assembly is quite complicated
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AmazonStudio Designs Deluxe Craft Station
(Image credit: SD STUDIO DESIGNS)
The Deluxe Craft Station is another fantastic choice for artists. With this table, you get a large space as a drawing board to get creative. It’s strong and sturdy, and the assembly doesn’t take long. You can adjust the tabletop with just one finger and select any angle up to 40 degrees.
Making art will never have been so enjoyable or straightforward. You also get some thoughtful extras, like plastic trays to hold your brushes. With three slide-out drawers, all your tools will be close at hand and easy to find.
Pros:
- Generous space to work on
- Lots of helpful accessories included
Cons:
- The tabletop can only be raised to a 40-degree angle
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AmazonSD Studio Designs Triflex Drawing Table
(Image credit: SD STUDIO DESIGNS)
If you’re looking for a modern drawing table for your art studio, the Triflex Drawing Table fits the bill. It’s an excellent choice, being both height-adjustable and angle-adjustable. You can use it standing or sitting, for the best ergonomic posture. It’s also easy to put together, with side trays so you can keep your brushes and paint at hand.
Pros:
- Cool, modern design
- Quick assembly
Cons:
- No storage compartments included
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AmazonStudio Designs Pro Craft Station
(Image credit: SD STUDIO DESIGNS)
The Pro Craft Station is a useful painting table to meet all your needs. You can angle it from flat to 45 degrees. This allows you to find your perfect position for comfort and creativity. With wheels, you can move it anywhere in your studio to catch the best light.
The Pro Craft Station is the right painting desk for you if you need lots of storage. It comes with six plastic drawers and a pencil ledge to keep all your essential items handy.
Pros:
- Included a padded footrest for extra comfort
- Large space to work on
Cons:
- The side trays are flimsy and very shallow
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AmazonSD Studio Designs Futura LS WorkCenter
(Image credit: SD STUDIO DESIGNS)
The Future LS WorkCenter is a sleek, modern, L-shaped painting desk. You get plenty of space with two desk surfaces and a corner connector. You can paint on one table, which is adjustable up to 45 degrees. Keep your laptop handy on the second surface, and swivel between the two easily. It’s constructed from robust and durable glass for an elegant look.
Pros:
- Quick and easy assembly
- Useful pencil ledge to keep your tools handy
Cons:
- Not as robust as a metal/wood desk
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AmazonThe Wrap Up
Choosing the right easel stand or painting desk can be daunting. It’s an important piece of furniture for an artist, whether you’re a beginner or a professional! I hope this article has helped you decide which desk or easel to go for you.
There are some superb options out there, with something for every budget. Buying an easel stand or painting desk will make a painting or drawing much more enjoyable!
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